Traveling abroad to live a volunteer experience is much more than packing your suitcase and getting on a plane. It’s an adventure that will transform the way you see the world and understand life.
It means stepping out of your comfort zone, wanting to be part of a positive impact, and above all, feeling the need to share your knowledge, tools, and love with the people you meet along the way.
But to make sure everything goes well and you enjoy your experience to the fullest, there are a few things you should keep in mind before setting off.
Today we want to share with you some tips and important aspects that will help you prepare for your experience with Cooperating Volunteers.
1. Learn about your destination
Each country has its own culture, customs, climate, and particularities. Before traveling, take some time to learn more about the place where you’ll live your experience: how people dress, what language they speak, what kind of food is common, or if there are any cultural norms you should respect.
This will not only help you integrate better but also show respect for the local community and allow you to enjoy your stay even more.
You can’t imagine how wonderful it feels to arrive somewhere and have the community see that you’re genuinely interested in integrating, learning, understanding, and above all, respecting other ways of living.
2. Check your documentation
It may sound obvious, but many times pre-travel nerves make us forget basic things. Make sure your passport is valid (and with several months before expiration!) and check if you need a visa or an international vaccination card to enter the country.
At Cooperating Volunteers we’ll help you with this process, but it’s important that you also stay informed to avoid any unexpected issues.
We want this process—which can sometimes feel tedious—to be quick and efficient for you, and to help you avoid any problems that could affect your future experience.
3. Pack smart
Each destination and project is different. It’s not the same to take part in an environmental conservation program as it is to collaborate in an educational center or a community project.
Bring comfortable clothes suitable for the weather and local culture, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and of course, an open attitude. Remember: less is more. And always leave some space in your backpack for memories.
Remember that Cooperating Volunteers sends you information so you have a clear idea of how to pack in the most practical and comfortable way for you.
4. Take care of your health before traveling
Check with your local health center or a travel medicine clinic to learn about recommended vaccines or medications you might need.
Carrying a small personal first-aid kit is very useful, especially in rural or remote areas. We always recommend bringing basic supplies so you can handle minor situations easily.
Also, remember that you’ll be traveling to a country with different food and hygiene standards than your own, so it’s important to be mindful of what you eat and drink and take precautions both before and during your trip.
5. Be clear about your goals
Before traveling, think about why you want to live this experience. What do you hope to contribute, and what do you hope to learn? Having an open and flexible mindset is key: each day will bring new challenges, lessons, and unique moments.
We also recommend doing some preparation beforehand. For example, if you’re going to participate in an educational center with children, you can bring activities planned and prepared from home.
Although the most important thing is your willingness and enthusiasm to be part of this.
7. Get ready for a (positive) culture shock
Adapting to a new culture can be a challenge, but it’s also one of the most enriching parts of the journey. Don’t compare—observe and learn.
The volunteer experience is an exchange: you give your time and energy, and in return, you receive life lessons, friendships, and a new perspective on the world.
At Cooperating Volunteers, there’s no judgment. We take this journey voluntarily, knowing we can be of help in other parts of the world—but we don’t intend to change other people’s ways of doing things, their customs, or their way of living.
We join hands so that it becomes a shared effort, never an imposition.
7. Trust the local team
Our coordinators and project managers are there to guide, support, and ensure your experience is safe and meaningful. Listen to them, ask questions, and share any doubts you might have.
We have the best team, and they are dedicated to ensuring your safety and making this experience unforgettable.
Traveling as a volunteer is an experience that combines adventure, solidarity, and personal growth. With good preparation and the right attitude, you’ll discover that each day is full of learning and unforgettable moments.
And remember, Cooperating Volunteers accompanies, advises, and supports you from start to finish.
WE’LL BE WAITING FOR YOU AROUND THE WORLD
